Getty Images
1. CHOOSE YOUR SEAT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
There are two types of people – aisle people and window people – so getting the seat you desire is important. Check in online as soon you can to secure your seat. If that’s not possible, arrive at the airport as early as possible. An hour or two extra in the departure lounge might mean you avoid the dreaded middle seat.
2. TRAVEL PILLOW AND BLANKET
Planning ahead and bringing the right items in your carry-on is essential to a comfortable night. A good neck pillow, travel cushion for your back and blanket won’t take up that much room, but they will provide an extra level of comfort when you need it most!
3. SPARE SEAT ETIQUETTE
It’s every flyer’s dream, an unoccupied row right near you. It’s tempting to jump right in and take it but be warned – flight crew take a dim view of that. Make sure you touch base with an attendant and ask if it’s OK take the row once you’ve taken off. Politeness will get you a lot further in these situations than being pushy.
4. HYDRATE
It’s tempting to sit back and watch a rom-com with a few wines. But don’t forget that due to the pressurised cabin and altitude, you may not handle it as well as you do on the ground. Drink as much water as you can to keep yourself hydrated – you’ll feel much better going through customs at the other end.
5. HEADPHONES
There are very good noise-cancelling headphones out there that also provide top quality sound. If you travel a lot, buy the best you can afford – they make a huge difference.
6. STRATEGISE YOUR SLEEP
You want to hit the ground running and not feel like you’re walking through mud due to jetlag. Get your head around the time zone you’re flying into and how it relates to your flight. Falling asleep straight away might be the worst thing to do, so make sure you know what time it is at your destination and sleep accordingly.
7. POWER UP
There’s nothing worse than being in the air without your beloved music and once landed, a dead phone. Most planes have some kind of in-seat charging these days, but make sure you have all the right cables before you leave. Always carry a portable charging device for your phone – they are small, relatively inexpensive and very handy.
8. BRING YOUR OWN HEALTHY SNACKS
Make sure you have some healthy snacks for your family to enjoy, as food service might not happen straight away
and the meal you choose may not always be available.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
